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River Cities of France & Portugal

L2413

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Belem tower, Lisbon, Portugal Monument to the discoveries Lisbon, Portugal

08 May 2024

Newcastle

15 nights

Balmoral

The cruise at a glance

The Olsen Way Highlights

This cruise has been designed to take you on a cultural journey to uncover historic battles and power struggles, from the Norman invasion in France to the Age of Discovery in Portugal. The destinations have also been chosen for their traditional food and drink, with highlights including a tour to meet the owners of Château Boutinet, where you can discover Bordeaux’s wine history, and learning how to make pastéis de nata with a local pastry chef in Lisbon. Scenic Discoveries include sailing past the Tower of Hercules – the world’s oldest working lighthouse – and along the River Seine – lined by quaint villages and rich, hilly countryside – en route to Rouen, a journey only possible on smaller ships.

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Highlights

Glass of red wine, Vineyards

The Vineyards of Chateau Boutinet

Join a tour to the 18th century Château Boutinet, located in Villegouge, close to Bordeaux. Strolling through the vineyards, you will learn more of the fascinating history and winemaking methods used here. As part of our Signature Experiences programme, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the wines, alongside delicious tapas which pair perfectly with the selected Château Boutinet wines.

River Seine, France

Scenic Discovery of the River Seine

As part of our Scenic Discoveries experience, journey along the River Seine as Balmoral glides through Normandy’s Parc naturel régional des Boucles de la Seine, linking the historic cities of Rouen and Honfleur. As Fred. Olsen's smaller cruise ships can navigate waterways such as these with ease, you’ll see traditional houses and churches which have inspired artists such as Monet and  Matisse.

The Belem tower, Lisbon, Portugal

Age of Discovery

On a tour from Lisbon, follow in the footsteps of the Portuguese Age of Discovery and learn more about the rich maritime history of explorers and navigators. Visit the magnificent Belém Tower, a fortress built in 1515; and browse collections of maps and artefacts at the maritime museum. Close by is the Royal Monastery of Jerónimos, which houses the tomb of navigator Vasco da Gama.

Itinerary

Cruise Itinerary

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Life On Board

Introducing Balmoral

Beautiful Balmoral is small enough to navigate some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways so guests can enjoy hours of scenic cruising. Balmoral retains a warm, civilised atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation, stylish restaurants and plenty of open deck space.

Balmoral
Fred. Olsen ship Balmoral sailing at dawn

Balmoral

Beautiful Balmoral is small enough to navigate Europe’s most picturesque waterways so guests can enjoy hours of scenic cruising. Balmoral offers a warm, civilised atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation, stylish restaurants and plenty of open-deck space.

710 cabins
1,325 guests
551 crew
43,537 GT
16kts max speed
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Our Signature Experiences

To make your experience even more special, our Journey Planners have designed a unique programme of Signature Experiences which will allow you to discover real insights about the culture and nature of the places we are visiting, so you can arrive in each destination fully prepared to get the most out of your visit.

Itinerary Insights

We have carefully curated a programme of events to give you a deeper understanding of each of the destinations you will be visiting

Scenic Discoveries

Our Scenic Discoveries are designed to allow you to enjoy seeing the world from the unique perspective of our ships

The Ship and the Sea

Maritime is in our DNA - our history in shipping goes back almost 200 years

The Sky at Sea

There’s very little in the natural world more beautiful than a clear night sky, sunrise or sunset seen at sea

Treats of the Region

We love to bring a taste of the region's food, drink, local tastes and culinary traditions to life on board

Cabins, Prices & Offers

Cabin Options On Your Cruise

* Prices correct as of 13:00 22/09/2023, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on two people sharing a twin cabin. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

* Prices correct as of 13:00 22/09/2023, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

Cabin Grades

Standard Pricing Solo Pricing
Suite

Balcony Junior Suite (BJ)

Balmoral's Balcony Junior Suites have a large cabin area and private balcony

Freedom Fare From £4,499 pp
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Suite

Marquee Suite (MS)

Situated on deck 10, Marquee Suites have a private balcony and large cabin area

Freedom Fare From £5,999 pp
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Suite

Owner's Suite (OW)

Exclusive Suite - please call for more details

Freedom Fare From £7,999 pp
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Suite

Premier Suite (PS)

Located on deck 10, Premier Suites have a private balcony and large cabin area

Freedom Fare From £6,199 pp
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Suite

Superior Suite (SS)

Located on decks 9 & 10, Superior Suites have a balcony and large cabin area

Freedom Fare From £4,699 pp
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Cruise Offers

Enjoy FREE drinks   Saver Fare
Freedom Fare

What's Included

SO MUCH ALREADY INCLUDED

As well as our Signature Experiences, there is a host of other treats to enjoy on board our ships.

Treats & Pastimes

In addition to our Signature Experiences, we have a selection of lovely Treats & Pastimes for you to enjoy when on board. Just check your Daily Times each day for full details.

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Enhance your cruise

Each of our cruises has been carefully designed for you to get the very best out of your time on board; and now you can enhance your cruise to make it even more special.

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